Back To The Future: Fashion-Forward Retro Shoes

Everyone loves to be on the cutting edge of fashion. But sometimes, you can’t jump forward without taking a step back. Looking to the past for inspiration can liven up your wardrobe by incorporating a fun and funky retro twist to an otherwise modern look. Here are some particularly inspiring up-to-date twists on shoe styles from a bygone era.

Kate Spade Lisa Pump

Nina Dobrev

Kate Spade Lisa Pump

There’s always been a certain level of nostalgia for the 1950s. Just thinking about the era evokes fond notions of shiny diners and sipping on a shared ice cream float, of slipping nickels in the jukebox and dancing while your pastel poodle skirt floats out around you. These fanciful candy-coated ideals extend to the fashion of the era: fifties-inspired styles often incorporate bold patterns and vivid colors. Kate Spade does a wonderful job of incorporating this inspiration into shoes that are at once fashion forward and demurely charming. The Lisa Pump layers eye-popping pink patent polka dots over delicate mesh and tops it all off with a sweetly delicate bow. Actress Nina Dobrev demonstrates how you can edge up a vibrant pink shoe by contrasting it with a sleekly sexy black lace corset, giving even the most nostalgis of shoe a fresh modern twist.

Chie Mihara Rosmic Oxford Pump

Taylor Swift

Chie Mihara Rosmic Oxford Pump

There are few shoes as decidedly retro-looking as an Oxford, especially one that contrasts crisp black against creamy white for an added visual punch. Chie Mihara has described her own design style as “feminine and naïve”, but she often ups the fashion stakes by pairing feminine lines and decidedly masculine styles. The Rosmic Oxford Pump in bone and black leather perfectly exemplifies that dichotomy. Pair these deceptively edgy shoes with tailored, high-wasted black pants and a gauzy off-white blouse to further play up that masculine and feminine contrast. Or, for a daintier look, take a cue from musician Taylor Swift’s sweetly meek lacy frock.

Stuart Weitzman Chantelle Peep Toe Pump

Dita Von Teese

Stuart Weitzman Evening Chantelle Peep Toe Pump

Burlesque vixen Dita Von Teese has perfected the art of giving vintage style a sexy modern twist. She combines a slinky but simple little black dress with statement pieces like an oversized necklace, shawl, elbow-length evening gloves and daringly lacy peep toe pumps to create a monochramtic look that is still rich with texture. Shoes from the Stuart Weitzman Evening collection can help you evoke a high-end classic look that is still unmistakable sexy. The Chantelle Peep Toe Pump in black satin has a delicately lacy peek-a-boo effect that is subtle and sexy.

Being on the cutting edge of fashion is a great thing, but you can look to the past without being stale or old-fashioned. Look for retro inspiration, and you may be surprised by how modern your look becomes as a result.